In the Council Chamber of the Senju Clan Compound, a group of people stared at one another.
The moment they returned to the compound, Ryuto had tossed out, "I'm going to get cleaned up," and run off, leaving everyone staring at one another.
Hashirama's mouth hung open for a long time. Tobirama's brow was furrowed deeply enough to crush a fly. The other Kage-level fighters who could still barely stand, such as Yotsuki A and Hyūga Sōto, all looked bewildered.
"He just... left like that?" Yotsuki A scratched his head. He was straightforward and couldn't make sense of it. "Isn't he fighting that monster Madara in three days? Isn't he going to prepare?"
Hashirama sighed and slumped back into his chair, utterly exhausted. Between fighting Kaguya and releasing the Spirit Bomb earlier, he had long since emptied his chakra reserves. Willpower alone kept him going now.
"Ryuto has his own plans," Hashirama said, though he didn't sound very confident.
Tobirama walked over, his expression still grim.
"Brother, we can't let him do whatever he wants," Tobirama said. "We have no idea what state Madara Uchiha is in now. His Rinnegan's abilities, his power after absorbing Kaguya, and that bizarre appearance of his... No matter how strong Ryuto is, he can't afford to be this complacent."
Hashirama said nothing.
He knew Tobirama was right. But he knew even better that once Ryuto made a decision, no one could change it.
"Let's talk when he gets back." Hashirama waved a hand.
The group waited in the Council Chamber. About an hour later, Ryuto returned.
He had changed into clean clothes, and his hair was wet, as though he had just bathed. His expression was relaxed, as if he were heading out for a picnic.
"Finished discussing things?" Ryuto asked.
Hashirama stood. "Ryuto,